Bronze or synthetic composites

[Haggsinnorway]

In view of all the recent discussions regarding hull penetrations and seacocks I am planning on changing all the above during this coming winters layup. Whilst appreciating that based on experience bronze is the preferred material what about the new technologies and materials based on nylon, glass fiber and teflon composites, has anyone had any good or bad experiences with these products?

This is my first time on the forum so hope to receive some good advise.

I sail a floating restoration project, a 1984 Player 311 built in Sweden.

 

[Tranona]

Composite sseacocks ( the usual material is Marelon) are a perfectly viable alternative to bronze or DZR. They are popular for use in steel and aluminium hulls for obvious reasons. However, they have no clear advantages over DZR, are generally a bit more expensive and more bulky which can be an issue if space is tight.

While not wishing to trivialise the current issues related to the use of inappropriate brass fittings, the reality is that bronze and DZR in particular are used extensively without any problems. So unless you have a boat where non metallic fittings are needed, DZR is fine - just make sure that it is DZR. I have a boat that is 50 years old and the bronze seacocks are still working and sound. I recently replaced a DZR ball valve cooling water intake because I put a new engine in. It had been there for 18 years and no sign of any corrosion or wear, and I would quite happily re-use it.

 

[Reverend Ludd]

This kind of thing......I'll get my coat

 

[beerbiker21]

Looks like bronze but my guess is it's mostly plastic!